An Israeli airstrike has severed a main highway connecting Lebanon to Syria, resulting in two large craters on either side of the road. The strike, which occurred on Friday, has made the road impassable for vehicles, forcing individuals to travel on foot to the Masnaa Border Crossing. This crossing has been a crucial route for tens of thousands of people fleeing the conflict in Lebanon and seeking refuge in Syria over the past two weeks.
Israel initiated a ground incursion into Lebanon against the Hezbollah militant group on Tuesday, alongside conducting strikes in Gaza. The Israeli military reported the loss of nine soldiers in the conflict in southern Lebanon. Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have escalated, with frequent exchanges of fire across the Lebanon border since Hamas' cross-border attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties.
In recent developments, the Israeli military confirmed the killing of Mohammed Skafi, the head of Hezbollah's communications division, in a strike in Beirut. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department disclosed that around 350 American citizens, green card holders, and their families have been evacuated from Lebanon on U.S.-organized contract flights amid the escalating conflict.
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei commended Iran's recent missile strike on Israel during Friday prayers, emphasizing the country's support for Hezbollah. Additionally, Japan is preparing to evacuate its citizens from Lebanon and has advised Japanese nationals in Iran to leave promptly due to security concerns.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Beirut to engage with Lebanese officials regarding the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. The visit coincided with new Israeli airstrikes in various parts of Lebanon, including Beirut's southern suburb and the Bekaa Valley.
Furthermore, Australia's Prime Minister condemned comments made by the Iranian ambassador praising a deceased Hezbollah leader, denouncing any support for terrorist organizations. The ambassador's remarks sparked controversy, with calls for his expulsion by opposition leaders.
